Article

The aims of this study were to evaluate the function and quality of life in
patients who have undergone replantation of the hand or forearm. We carried out a
retrospective single-center study of cases performed between 1977 and 2015. Our
hospital's database was searched for patients who underwent replantation of the
distal half of the forearm and hand (except the fingers).
The evaluation included
sensitivity, joint mobility, strength and quality of life. Conventional
functional scores were used. Seventeen replantation cases were identified. Four
patients were lost to follow-up. Of the 13 available patients, two suffered a
replantation failure. Ultimately 11 patients were included in the study. Three
patients were evaluated based on their medical records and eight were reviewed in
person. The mean patient age was 31+/-11.8 years. The sensory evaluation resulted
in five patients being classified as S1 and one as S3+. The mean Kapandji score
was 4.3+/-2.3 [0-6]. The mean grip strength was 39.4+/-20% [0-80], and the pinch
strength was 36.2+/-16% [0-60] compared to the healthy contralateral side. The
mean DASH was 36.2+/-30.4 [4.5-79.5]. According to Chen's classification, two
patients were at stage IV. For 50% of patients, the overall quality of life was
at least equivalent to that of the general population. Replantation of the distal
half of the forearm and hand should be attempted whenever possible. Although
replantation causes some disability, good quality of life seems to be maintained.
CI - Copyright (c) 2017. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Langue : ANGLAIS